On the day following the Mets’ final game of the 2013 regular season, when manager Terry Collins was officially retained for 2014, general manager Sandy Alderson mentioned he hoped to upgrade at shortstop this winter.

Two months later, the options continue to dwindle and Ruben Tejada’s chances of remaining the Mets’ starting shortstop continue to increase.

Last month, Jhonny Peralta, the Mets’ top target, agreed to a four-year, $52 million deal with the Cardinals. That left an already thin shortstop market even more barren.

And Thursday night the Marlins reportedly signed Rafael Furcal to a one-year, $3.5 million contract. A shortstop since breaking into the majors, Furcal will become Miami’s everyday second baseman, according to Fox Sports. He missed the entire 2013 season with the Cardinals following Tommy John surgery.

Free agent Stephen Drew is still available, but signing him would require forfeiting a draft pick and likely more money than Peralta received. Besides Drew, the free-agent shortstop crop includes Clint Barmes, Cesar Izturis, Paul Janish, Munenori Kawasaki, and other underwhelming names.

Alderson has acknowledged trade scenarios exist. The Athletics could offer Jed Lowrie. The Rays could relinquish Yunel Escobar. The Diamondbacks have a logjam of young talent at the position.

Ultimately, the Mets may only add a backup and have Tejada retain his starting spot. Or they can stand pat and have the slick-fielding Wilfredo Tovar, who debuted in September, serve as the club’s reserve infielder.